SINGAPORE: In a groundbreaking achievement for Singaporean motorsport, Christian Ho has officially signed with French racing team DAMS Lucas Oil for the 2025 Formula 3 season, marking his entry as the first driver from Singapore to participate in this prestigious racing series.

On Wednesday, January 15, DAMS announced the 18-year-old’s inclusion in their driver lineup, which also features Peru's Matias Zagazeta and Italy's Nicola Lacorte. The team is gearing up for what will be their inaugural campaign in Formula 3, a stepping stone towards Formula 1, known for nurturing future F1 stars such as Carlos Sainz, Alex Albon, and Pierre Gasly.

“I’m thrilled to be joining DAMS Lucas Oil and to be the first F3 driver from Singapore. The team's extensive experience in racing gives me a lot of confidence, and I’m eager to learn and grow alongside them,” Ho expressed.

Though DAMS is new to Formula 3, the team boasts a rich history in Formula 2, having been a prominent presence since 1989. Over the years, they have accumulated an impressive 31 international titles and 173 race wins across various championships, producing a slew of competent F1 drivers, including Romain Grosjean and Kamui Kobayashi.

Ho is well aware of the legacy he is stepping into and remains positive about the challenges ahead. “This season will definitely test us, but I'm excited for what lies ahead. I had a successful run in the Eurocup-3 last year, and I'm determined to maintain that momentum,” stated Ho.

DAMS team owner and former F1 driver, Charles Pic, praised Ho’s potential. “His speed during the test days was remarkable, and his racing background is strong. It’s a historic moment for him to be the first driver from Singapore in F3," said Pic. He also emphasized their commitment to prepare thoroughly for the season, which kicks off in Melbourne from March 14 to 16 and concludes at Monza, Italy, from September 5 to 7.

F1 ASPIRATIONS

Ho’s motorsport journey began at a young age, racing in Europe since he was 11 years old. At just 12, he made history as the first Asian to win a race in the FIA Karting Academy Trophy. His rise continued when he secured fourth place in the 2020 FIA World Karting Championship – Junior and clinched third in the WSK Champions Cup.

His success in carding paved the way for his transition to car racing, as he entered the Formula 4 Spanish Championship in 2022. Last season, he turned heads in the Eurocup-3 series with six victories, earning him the rookie champion title.

Reflecting on his ambitions of becoming Singapore's first F1 driver, Ho expressed his determination during an interview last September. “I’m now just two steps away from F1, and this makes me more driven to succeed. Competing against the best drivers in the world is daunting, but I’m ready to put in the effort necessary to excel,” he stated.

He acknowledged the rigorous journey from F3 to F1 typically spans three to four years, aspiring to follow in the footsteps of legends like four-time world champion Max Verstappen and Michael Schumacher.

As the excitement builds for the upcoming F3 season, Christian Ho’s historic debut not only signifies a personal milestone for him but also for Singaporean motorsport as a whole, potentially igniting greater interest and investment in the sport within the nation. Will he emerge as a formidable contender? Fans and teams alike will be watching closely!